The whole relationship, Izzo said, has made things more fun for him. Last week, as the focus shifted back to the football program during spring practice, Dantonio said the relationship between the two coaches has grown over time.

“I just think we can identify with each other because we go through struggles together,” Dantonio said. “We go through certain struggles as a coach at this level. It’s a people business, so there’s always people that you deal with, whether it’s players, whether it’s supporters, whatever it is. I just think the relationship was strong when I came here, and it’s just been strengthened.

“I’ve said many many times, I look across the practice field, that basketball arena sits right there. They get it done and they get it done right. He’s been supportive through the entire process for us.”